Chicory: benefits and how to consume
Chicory, whose scientific name is Cichorium pumilum, is a plant rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber and can be consumed raw, in fresh salad or in the form of infusions, the most commonly used parts being its leaves and roots.
- Chicory is also known as coffee chicory.
- Almond.
- Wild almond.
- Bitter chicory and wild chicory.
- And is widely used to treat liver or intestinal problems.
- This plant also has properties that can help treat muscle aches.
- Improve digestion.
- Prevent cardiovascular disease and strengthen the immune system.
Chicory is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and fiber, with a high nutritional value and several health benefits, the main being:
In addition, chicory strengthens the bones and stimulates the appetite. For example, chicory can also be used to help treat gout, liver congestion, high blood pressure, and pest control.
The parts of chicory most commonly used for consumption are leaves and root, which can be used in salads, juices and infusions, for example.
Chicory leaves
Chicory leaves are often used in salads and can be eaten raw, cooked or stewed, but can also be used to make juice. The chicory juice can be prepared by placing 1 chicory leaf and 200 ml of water in a blender.The whole leaf is crushed and incorporated into the water, you can consume the juice.This juice can be consumed before a meal, to stimulate appetite, or after a meal, to promote the digestive process.
Chicory roots:
Chicory roots can be used to make chicory coffee, which is healthier than regular coffee and may be considered an option for people who contrast coffee consumption, such as people with diabetes or high blood pressure, for example.Chicory coffee is found in supermarkets and health food stores and its value can range from R$ 4 to R $ 10.
Chicory tea
Another way to consume chicory is to drink tea made with the leaves and roots of the plant, to make the tea just put 20 g of leaves and chicory roots in 1 L of boiling water and let stand for 10 minutes, then filter and drink at least 3 times a day before or after meals.
Chicory is contracted in cases of diarrhea and fever.